solve

verb

ˈsälv How to pronounce solve (audio)
ˈsȯlv
solved; solving
Synonyms of solvenext

transitive verb

1
: to find a solution, explanation, or answer for
solve a problem
solved the crime
2
: to pay in full
solve a debt

intransitive verb

: to solve something
substitute and solve for x
solver noun

Synonyms

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of solve in a Sentence

They are working to solve the traffic problem. If they'll lend us the money we need, all our problems will be solved. He couldn't solve the math problem. The mystery has been solved. The FBI has been trying to solve the case for years.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But the next couple of years will ultimately be how Guerin is judged, starting with solving the Kaprizov extension and the Rossi saga. — Michael Russo, New York Times, 31 July 2025 After being framed, Layla is given a deal to work with Elise in order to solve this mystery that could lead to a reaper cure. — Lynnette Nicholas, Essence, 31 July 2025 Bitcoin solved the double‑spending problem with a global ledger that is independently verified by all nodes on the network. — Dave Birnbaum, Forbes.com, 31 July 2025 Syngenta has built a network of Modern Agriculture Platform, or MAP centers, in China to help solve this problem. — Cecilia Hult, Fortune, 31 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for solve

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, to loosen, from Latin solvere to loosen, solve, dissolve, from sed-, se- apart + luere to release — more at secede, lose

First Known Use

circa 1533, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of solve was circa 1533

Rhymes for solve

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Browse Nearby Words

Solvay process
solve
solvency
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Solve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solve. Accessed 8 Aug. 2025.

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Kids Definition

solve

verb
ˈsälv How to pronounce solve (audio)
ˈsȯlv
solved; solving
: to find a solution for
solve a puzzle

More from Merriam-Webster on solve

Nglish: Translation of solve for Spanish Speakers

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